"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."-Ephesians 6:12

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"The Battle Belongs to the Lord..." Yes, indeed the battle (see GoodnewsEverybody: Military) does belong to the Lord. We sometimes try to fight our own battles, but we forget that the battle has been won through Jesus Christ (remember the scene in "The Passion" when Jesus died on the cross and the camera zooms downward where Satan cries in the pits of Hell)! I heard a sermon recently on how the real battle is our own flesh (e.g. pride, sinful desires, etc..) because the battle with Satan was won already Jesus' crucifixion.

"All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands."-1 Samuel 17:47

I (Sal) was just watching a scene from the first of 3 series of "Lord of the Rings" (on TBS 12/12/04) (see more..) , which the men that belong to the Fellowship of the Ring face various battles....
LOTR the last battle

" this is the last battle in the return of the king extended version but i've edited all of the scenes of frodo and sam out."
After watching all 3 and watching the first again, I now realize that the battles they fought in the beginning was just preperation for the final battle at the end. I somehow picture that's how our Christian walk is. God lets us go through daily or seasonal wildernesses/struggles to get us prepared for tougher and more challenging times in life. Next time you face a challenging circusmastance in life-don't give up! It just makes your tougher and more confident/faithful to face the next challenge. As I reflect on the name "Fellowship of the Rings", it is important for us believers to be in fellowship (curently telling this to my sister at home and friend on the phone). God can use us mightily when we come together in unity (John 17) under Christ!
*see more "Evil vs. Good" movies....

Personal Advice

After co-starting/organizing a campus ministry called Alpha & Omega, I've learned about intercessory prayer like I never had before. Before each Friday night gathering, the core-leaders would get together in prayer at the Minority Resource Center T.V. Lounge. After 30 minutes, we publicly (through e-mail and word of mouth) invited any members (usually the committed and dedicated ones) to come join us in prayer. By the time our get-together starts @8pm, we feel a strong presence of our Heavenly Father. Various gifts are manifested and people are touched! Unfortunately, this group is not going on still (long story-see ministry challenges), but another group called Chi-Alpha somewhat is following its' shadows (please pray for this group). However, my experience with Alpha & Omega has taught me to apply this prior/during/after each Sunday service at my local church. These are somewhat the steps I take:

-start my day with worship (sing a familiar praise & worship song that comes to mind/heart)
-then read a Bible verse (usually in the New Testament as a way to challenge myself to "act" upon the word)
-before I eat throughout the day, I try to remember what verse I read before I "chow down" to keep me in line
-on Sundays or some services/biblestudies/important session, I try to fast (e.g. food, t.v., ). This puts my mind and heart focussing on God!
-even before getting to the location, I start praying, singing, or speaking in tongues to get into that spiritual level
-by the time I'm at the location, I try to be ready and continue to pray, sing, or speak in tongues
-during praise & worship time, I start praying for everyone there and anyone that couldn't be there..."Heavenly Father, I pray for everyone here and everyone that couldn't and should've make it. I bind any strongholds or any unclean (sins) spirits that each one may have brought here and I cast it out into the abyss, in Jesus' name. Father God, I invite you to come in dwell in this place, so that each one here will feel your presence. I pray that everyone here and those that might be coming late will not leave here without getting touched by your personally. I pray that each one will not leave here without something (e.g your word) that will help grow them to get through the rest of the day, week, month, up-coming season's in life, rest of the year, and rest of their life....in Jesus' name. Speak to them through the praise and worship, the shares/testimony time, and the word through (name of speaker/pastor/teacher).
-I pray right now for the worship team and leader. Protect them against any temptation (e.g. pride) or spiritual attacks (e.g. lies or voices). Cover each one with the armor of God. Touch each one that they'll be able to play and sing for your glory"
-speak in tonuges between, during, and after the above prayers. Then I pray this, "I pray that each of the spiritual gifts (see teaching) will be each manifested. Show your power, signs, wonders, and miracles....co shat aba ik a lata to...!
-then I try to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and wait on the Lord for the next level, move, or action (e.g. ask God if he wants me to share, and if he does; I then ask Him to speak to others about this "theme" and then I act upon it)
-I try to also mixed my prayer with reflections on what I'm thankful for..."When the praises go up...the blessings come down" (a popular line between prayer sessions at Alpha & Omega)...."Hallealuah, praise the Lord...thank you Jesus for...."

Spiritual Warfare

"www.FreeCDTracts.com Ephesians Eph 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Eph 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Eph 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Eph 6:13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Eph 6:14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; Eph 6:15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Eph 6:16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. Eph 6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Eph 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints"

Is there dancing at your home? Remember the "good ole days" when growing-up at home was joyful (e.g. parents showing love & affection for one another)? If not, sorry to hear about that. There is probably a reason why, please read on. Life seem to be a lot "joyful" growing-up as a kid and somehow life did a 180' and the joy left the home. My family seem more happy when we didn't have much money as we were together more. I wonder why? As I got older, I came up with my own personal conclusion. It might not be for everybody, but I feel it was because of "sin" (e.g. greed for not just only money, but other "worldly" material) entered the home. I mean, sin was always around, but "more" came in. As I reflect my "past life", I saw the "sin" that entered the home and it was like a "fire" that just went out of control.

"Candle fire Story"

For example, you ever light a candle? Imagine if other people had a candle too in the same house during a power outage. Let say two individuals started fighting over which candle was "bigger". The fight gets out of control. Then that candle besides them fell and started a fire. It was a small fire, which could've been put out. Unfortunately, these individuals continued to fight over whose fault it was of this small fire. They continue to fight and another candle falls. This starts a second fire and the first one goes out of control. It becomes to late as two separate fires are going and then spreads throughout the whole house. Well, this fire is like "sin" and if we don't stop it early enough, it gets out of control. Depending on the size of the house fire, it can spread throughout the neighborhood, community, city, county, state, etc...

I hope you can understand where I'm going. If I could go back in time, there are a lot of things I would've changed. Some significant events where not entirely under my control, but that's how Satan works. He wants to destroy the home life. Instead of "pointing my fingers" (e.g. blame game) at some individuals because that's what Satan wants to do-cause us to be angry and fight one another; I rather start with myself. I made some "wrongful" choices as a kid that increased this "fire" of sin that already existed in my family (see family testimony). I know I wasn't a Christian at the time, which is why I'm big in sharing the Gospel (e.g. via website) that others will NOT make the same mistake I did.

"Take Action"

What can we do now? Depending the size of the fire, I encourage you to ask God and read the Bible (His Word of advice). Seek Him and ask Him what you can do because each individual's situation is different. I'm currently listening to some Christian music (e.g. like the video down below). I feel this is a start as having "God" Word played constantly in your house brings a positive atmosphere. If you are "mad" with an individual, ask God to forgive you and then ask Him how to reconcile (e.g. ask each other to forgive one another too) with that individual. Remember, Satan ("father of lies") just wants us to "fight" and he gets a laugh of us doing this. Let's stop entertaining him (e.g. wrestling or boxing match). Like one of my favorite rock bands' song beginning line..."What we got here is failure to communicate". Satan wants to distort each others' communication, which is why we have fights or wars in the world-a total misunderstanding. Don't let Satan tell lies to you about the individual you are mad or you'll end up like that story (above) of two people fighting that caused the candle to cause a fire. The sooner you "reconcile" with individuals you are made, the sooner you can stop the fire from spreading and making more damage.

Another advice I can give when preventing "fires" to spread in your own home or elsewhere is "fireproof". Ever seen the movie "Fireproof" (see GoodnewsEverybody.com Life-Marriage, Weddings, Covenant with God, etc... Outreach)? It just dawns on me what it might mean, we need to wear that "armor of God" (Ephesians 6). Put it on right away when you get up. What do you do when you get up from bed or after a shower? You put your clothes on that you are going to wear that day, right? You wouldn't go outside naked, right? Well, that's that same thing as a Christian. Remember, Satan has a "target" on your head when you get up each morning. Like a military solder, you have to put that "armor of God" each day because life is a battle-war zone.

Recommended Resources

"..We believe that prayer is powerful and life-changing. Would you like to change your life in some way? Perhaps you are searching for peace in your busy life. . . healing from life’s hurts. . . or hope in a hopeless situation.
Through prayer you can find the hope you are looking for. You can experience God’s healing in a deeply, personal way. Prayer also offers a space, a much-needed breathing space, to rest, relax and be refreshed...."National author, worldwide speaker on Spiritual Warfare to lead Twin Cities conference on prayer
By Michael Ireland
Chief Correspondent, ASSIST News Service Monday, September 10, 2007 "..."The Christian life is a battle," says Lee. "We are called as Christ’‚s followers to be light-bearers in a dark world. Yet we often find ourselves battling discouragement, sin and conflict in our own lives. Would you like to stand stronger in your faith? Learn to resist and overcome evil with good?...
"We live in an age of growing darkness. The threat of terrorism, a breakdown of social values and influx of New Age and Eastern religions and philosophies is causing Christians to drift from the moorings of biblical Christianity. Just when we need to stand strong and be light-bearers for Christ, all too often we succumb to the same darkness and deception that our secular culture does."
She was asked why churches often ignore the topic?
"I don’t know. It is at the center of the Gospel: the battle between light and darkness, God’s kingdom vs. Satan’s opposition to it. There is a lot of fear around the topic, which I don't understand. Everyone knows there is evil in the world. The good news for Christians is that Christ calls us to overcome evil with good. We ought to be an encouragement to our neighbors and friends when they face times of darkness in their lives—˜praying for them, loving them and offering them real hope in Christ."
Lee was also asked if balance can ever be achieved in spiritual warfare?
"Absolutely. We usually think of spiritual warfare in two extremes—˜we either place undue put undue emphasis on Satan and his powers influence or completely ignore his existence all together. The Bible says that every Christian is supposed to recognize the forces of good and evil in the world. If we keep our eyes focused on Christ, He will help us understand the reality of Satan’s schemes in our lives and show us how to defeat them."
..."

The Visitation By Frank Peretti, bookpage.com"..In this atmosphere it's altogether fitting that Frank Peretti's new adult novel, The Visitation, should appear. The battle against the demonic has always been Peretti's principal theme, starting with the publication of his first novel, This Present Darkness, in 1986. The book's thrilling battles between angelic warriors and demons charted a new course in Christian fiction, but it took more than a year for readers to recognize that the spiritual battleground could be their own home town. In 1987 the book reached the top of the Christian bestseller list. Piercing the Darkness, published in 1989, spearheaded the strong interest in spiritual warfare fiction just as conservative Christians were beginning to read fiction in large numbers. ...
=>Movie:

"
Peretti’s supernatural thriller tells the story of a mysterious stranger (Edward Furlong) and his three associates, who arrive in a small town and perform miracles on those who would follow. Who is this charismatic drifter the townspeople have chosen to follow? Is he the true messiah, a false prophet or something far more sinister? While the town is blinded by the seduction of the supernatural, it’s up to an ex-minister (Martin Donovan) to confront his own inner demons and unlock the bizarre and shocking secrets of evil unleashed by the town’s choices before time runs out for the soul of Antioch.
Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material, violence/terror and disturbing images.
The Visitation Trailer

'Written By: Matt Cain 2008
This is a new song that is a call to Jesus for deliverance, help, and a request for his powerful presence. Sing it when the enemy has you down and is tempting you. Jesus will provide a way out!"

10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

19Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."

"Podcast#343
Artwork by John Bell copyright 1998-2007 (www.jrbell.com) used with permission
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Once we believe in Jesus, God has armed us with His supernatural strength to overcome problems and difficulties in life. Listen to this message and be encouraged by the Word of God concerning who we are in Christ, and what we have in Christ. God bless you. :)
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1 John 3:1 (NIV)
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us,
that we should be called children of God!
And that is what we are!
1 John 5:5
Who is it that overcomes the world?
Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
1 Timothy 6:12
Fight the good fight of faith.
Take hold of the eternal life
to which you were called
when you made your good confession
in the presence of many witnesses.
Ephesians 6:10-12
Finally, be strong in the Lord
and in His mighty power.
Put on the full armour of God
so that you can take your stand
against the devil's schemes.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,
but against the powers of this dark world
and against the spiritual forces of evil
in the heavenly realms.
Romans 8:37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors
through Him, who loved us. "
*be a "Victor" NOT a "victim"!Armed with Strength for the Battle
(Part 2 of 3)"Podcast #343
by Pastor Joel Osteen
Lakewood Church, USA
Artwork by John Bell copyright 1998-2007 (www.jrbell.com) used with permission
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Ephesians 6:13-18 (NKJV)
Therefore take up the whole armour of God,
that you may be able to withstand in the evil day,
and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having girded your waist with TRUTH,
having put on the breastplate of RIGHTEOUSNESS,
and having shod your feet
with the preparation of the gospel of PEACE;
above all, taking the shield of FAITH
with which you will be able to quench
all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
And take the helmet of SALVATION,
and the sword of the Spirit, which is the WORD OF GOD;
PRAYING ALWAYS with all prayer and supplication IN THE SPIRIT,
being watchful to this end
with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints
2 Corinthians 2:14
Now thanks be to God
who always leads us in TRIUMPH IN CHRIST,
and through us diffuses the fragrance
of His knowledge in every place.
Psalm 118:24
This is the day the Lord has made;
we will REJOICE and be glad in it. "
*see GoodnewsEverybody: Health-CancerArmed with strength (Part 3 of 3) ~ Pastor Joel Osteen, from youtube.com
*"same power that rose Christ from the dead is in me!"

"Worship and spiritual warfare go hand in hand.
The Old Testament provides an example of worship and warfare: 2 Chronicles 20:1-22.
In 2 Chronicles 17-19, we get a panoramic backdrop.
- God blessed Jehoshaphat because he did his will.
- Jehoshaphat was led astray.
- He repented of trusting in Ahab and went back to seeking the Lord.
In 2 Chronicles 20:1-4, we find a kingdom in a desperate situation.
- Jehoshaphat feared.
- The people of the kingdom "gathered together to ask help from the Lord."
- Seeking the Lord is our last resort, when it should be our first thought.
In 2 Chronicles 20:5-13, we see a nation humbled before God.
- These verses describe a mighty worship service.
- Worship is an admission of dependence.
In 2 Chronicles 20:14-19, we see a prophet with an encouraging message.
- Today God speaks through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and godly counselors.
- The battle is not yours, but God's.
In 2 Chronicles 20:20-30, we see a worship service that won the war.
- Everyone "bowed before the Lord, worshiping the Lord."
- Then they positioned themselves as God had commanded.
- Singers went out before the army to sing Psalm136.
- The enemy destroyed each other.
- God caused King Jehoshaphat's kingdom to be quiet and restful.
The New Testament provides a principle of worship and warfare: 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.
We are involved in a great spiritual war (v. 3).
- All around us is a titanic struggle between good and evil, God and Satan.
- Ephesians 6:12
The spiritual battle cannot be won with physical weapons (v 4).
One of the greatest weapons in our arsenal is worship.
The worship of Almighty God causes Satan to flee.."

"If You're a Christian You BETTER WATCH THIS!!! PLACEBO "
-Spiritual Warfare:
*Those saved have "guardian" Angels
Demons choose to used "deception" to "lure" humans (to give-in making "bad choices" with their "own" will) instead of a losing fight against Angels
Heaven:
-individuals going through the Heavenly gate one by one
-97% of world not ready to recieve God :(
Ministry:
-Ministry work to serve "own" self-conscience instead of God's was a rebuke by God.
Matthew 6:33

Save our youth through intercessory prayer. This is the first VIDEO of an intercessory pray series called WATCH AND PRAY, May it stir up the body of Christ to pray for this generation. So many teens are with out hope, many are fatherless. All need Jesus.
Begin to speak the word over them as you watch and pray.
yours truly
Blaine